Skin diseases afflict Attapadi tribal people

 

Dermatologists, who have conducted skin disease camps at Attapadi,  told DC that scabies and skin pigmentation due to vitamin deficiency were  rampant among the tribes.  

 

There were even cases of leprosy which have been  referred for continuous treatment.  Sources said that the medical intervention in these  hamlets was  inadequate.

 

“Scabies  is  spreading  due to lack of hygiene.  Children suffer from pyoderma that could lead to renal problems if not treated properly.  Most of them have skin diseases due to vitamin deficiency.  We also  found suspected cases of leprosy,” Dr. Renuka,  who participated in the  camps organised by the Malabar Dermatology Camp, said. 

It has so far conducted five skin diseases camps for the tribes. 

 

“There are some medics who are trying to change their lifestyle. However, the medical intervention is inadequate. We also should sensitise the tribal people regarding personal hygiene,” Dr. Renuka said.

 

Sources said the government agencies were not taking any steps  to improve the  conditions of the tribal people.   

 

They allege that the government had stopped its intervention with the nutritious meal programme, which itself is erratic in many areas. 

 

Pregnant woman suffer from malnutrition and the tribes have no easy access to quality health care, they said.